Coming off Sertaline

[Laura36TTC]

Hello,

Hope someone can help.

I was prescribed the lowest dose of sertaline last January. I had post partum anxiety caused by a number of issues.

I no longer have these anxious thoughts and with my GPs agreeement weaned myself off sertaline.

It’s now been around 3 weeks since I had any. The anxiety hasn’t returned but I find I am very emotional and will easily cry. Once I start crying I can’t stop.

I don’t know if it would be just easier to go back on them but I don’t want to be on them for life.

I do feel pretty low at the moment though.

I think it must be normal to have an adjustment period, but check with your GP.

If the anxiety hasn’t returned that is good - I think for now, beyond speaking to the doc, focus on enough sleep, eating well and regularly, getting light and fresh air, a bit of gentle exercise and contact with adults. All the things we are supposed to do to keep in good shape mentally (easier said than done I know). Also if you have a partner are they supportive and do they do their bit?? That’s vital.

I think you absolutely should speak to your GP again. They may recommend going back on, they may recommend therapy. Life with young children is hard.
for what it’s worth, DB has been on it for 20 years, when he has tried to come off he gets very depressed. When he’s on it, he is so much happier and copes very well. GP has told him it’s fine for him to take sertraline long term. And he doesn’t have any side effects that he’s aware of. All I’m saying is you don’t necessarily need to rush coming off them. Speaking to your doctor is probably a good idea first